An academic journal titled Sümedem: Journal of Communication and Cultural Studies edited by Prof. L. Imsutoshi Jamir and published by Clark Communication and Cultural Research Center (CCCRC) was officially released by Prof. Shimreingam Shimray, Principal of Eastern Theological College on 10th November at Clark Theological College (CTC), Mokokchung as CTC celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Prof. Jamir, the editor, explained the journal’s title, Sümedem as a significant public sphere in Ao Naga villages. He stated, “Sümedem implies, ‘a place where villagers gather,’ ‘a public platform,’ ‘a center for discourses and resolution.’ He further said that, it signifies public sphere where each member of the community is respected, valued and counted as equals in our rights as well as in our freedoms. Sümedem thus symbolizes indigenous people ‘COMING TO VOICE.’ He also acknowledged Shri Takoyaba Longkumer (Ex. MLA and Advocate) and his family for contributing Rs.1 Lakh every year since 2020 for the publication of the journal.
Prof. Shimray stated that the journal will be different from many other Indian journals since it is a peer-reviewed journal. The journal contains 6 researched articles and a book review. A message in the Journal from Philip Lee, General Secretary, World Association for Christian Association for Christian Communication reads, “Sümedem intends to publish studies and research as well as theoretical articles in the fields of communication and cultural studies and it aims to begin interdisciplinary conversations on the role of media, culture and religion in society.”
The journal will be available at the office of CCCRC, CTC, Mokokchung. Subscription requests can be sent to Tiameren Aier, Corresponding Secretary, CCCRC, CTC, Mokokchung. Contact: 9502827400/ tiamerenaier@gmail.com. This was stated in an official communique for the Clark Communication and Cultural Research Centre.